Comfort dog provides emotional support at FEMA recovery
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center located at the Cumberland County Department of Social Services is offering more than just resources on federal assistance.
There's a special assistance agent inside. He goes by the name of Aslan.
The 160 pound Leonberger is a comfort dog who's helping survivors of Hurricane Matthew cope with the emotional toll.
"He seems to know when people are upset. When they cry he puts his head on their chest." Says Jen O'Keefe.
O'Keefe is Aslan's owner. The organization she works for, Hope AACR, was contacted by FEMA to bring Aslan to the Recovery Center in Fayetteville. Many residents in Cumberland County lost everything. O'Keefe says while Aslan helps take their mind off of the damage, he also loves the attention.
"He thinks his job is the best job in the world and wishes we can do it all the time."
The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open seven days a week. Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 7:00 p.m.
